UCC Welcomes Appointment of New Ambassador of Ukraine to Canada

OTTAWA – December 14, 2012 – The Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) welcomes the appointment of a new Ambassador of Ukraine to Canada.

“After 18 months without an ambassador to Canada, we welcome the appointment of Vadym Prystaiko as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Canada,” stated UCC National President Paul Grod. “Given the significant relationship between our two countries and the serious ongoing issues in Ukraine, it is very important for Ukraine to have senior level representation at its embassy and consulates in Canada. Our community knows Ambassador Prystaiko from his time at the Embassy of Ukraine in Canada (2002-2006), and we are confident that he will exercise his functions professionally and capably.”

Ambassador Prystaiko presented his credentials to the Right Honourable Governor General David Johnston yesterday at a ceremony at Rideau Hall. Ukrainian Canadian Congress President Paul Grod attended the swearing in ceremony as a guest.

Upon their arrival in Canada, and before they can carry out their duties as heads of mission, new ambassadors must be officially welcomed by the Governor General of Canada. Credentials are the official documents by which new heads of diplomatic missions are presented by their head of State as their official representative. Currently, there are more than 140 heads of diplomatic missions accredited to Canada.

“I would like to congratulate Ambassador Prystaiko on his appointment and look forward to working with him to further develop productive relations between Ukraine and Canada and the Ukrainian Canadian community. We look forward to working with Ambassador Prystaiko in the best interest of all Ukrainians around the world,” continued Grod. “During a recent meeting with Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs John Baird, we both agreed that continuing free trade negotiations with Ukraine is in the best interest of Ukraine provided that key human rights and democratic principles are met. The Minister further commented that Ukraine will remain a key foreign policy priority for Canada.”

“We look forward to working with Ambassador Prystaiko in the interest of all Ukrainians to strengthen the independence and sovereignty of Ukraine, ensure its continued democratic development, deepen ties with the Ukrainian community in Canada, and support the development of Ukrainian culture and education both in Canada and in Ukraine,” concluded Grod.